5 Gifts for the Fitness Buff

Everyone has at least one of these types of friends. The friend who is at the gym before you even have your first cup of coffee. The friend who is already getting a jump start on their New Year's resolution, while the rest of gorge ourselves on holiday sweets and savories.

This holiday season, give your fit friend a helping hand on his or her highroad to self-improvement with these locally sold (or made) athletic gifts from around the Valley.

For fitness buffs who prefer two wheels over four, State Bicycle Co. in Tempe and Phoenix offers customizable rides that are more than just leg candy. Basic models of the custom fixed gear bikes start at $429, with premium upgraded models available for $649. Visit statebicycle.com or call 1-855-55-STATE to get the full list of bike options and place an order.

Get your endorphin junkie the gift that keeps on giving with a five-class package for $68 or, if you're really feeling generous, a 25-class package for $300. The central Phoenix studio offers a variety of yoga and cycling classes including phenomenal flow, party on a bike, candlelight flow, and the detox practice. For more information, visit themadisonphoenix.com or call 602-296-7118.

What better gift to give your cardio sidekick then a new pair of kicks from the Runner's Den? This sales staff at this mom-and-pop running shop know their customers like the back of their, well, feet. They offer all the big-name brands, including Brooks, Asics, Hoka, Mizuno, and Saucony, with prices ranging anywhere from $84 to $160. Visit www.runnersdenaz.com or call 602-277-4333.

Obviously the more you sweat, the more you need to hydrate. Which is why the reusable water bottle is the cheap but essential ingredient to a fitness buff gift basket. Sutra Midtown offers BPA-free insulated thermal tumblers and stainless steel water bottles to keep you cool while you heat things up. Both are available for $10. Visit www.sutramidtown.com or call 602-253-9525.

Katie Johnson

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Recreation reaches new stylish heights with a tote from Frances. Whether it's Orla Kiley flowers or more unisex prints like a cactus or a bike, these totes are a much appreciated alternative to the rank duffle bag of locker rooms past. Prices range from $70 to $120 with a larger selection found Frances' Medlock Plaza store. Visit www.francesvintage.com or call 602-279-5467.